Jaco. Drink then, ’twill warm you. (pours out wine for Todd)
Todd. (takes the glass and puts it down again—aside) It may be poisoned! (with affected indifference) Thank you, I’m not thirsty.
Jaco. Then I am. (fills for himself, and drinks)
Todd. (aside) He drinks himself. There can be no danger. On second thoughts, I’ll do myself the honour of drinking your health. (drinks)
Jaco. Right. (aside) Now we may speak without reserve, and first to introduce myself, (rises and bows) I’m Jacopo Terreboli at your service!
Todd. Terreboli! That desperate robber and cut-throat! I—I—beg pardon—I didn’t mean to—(rising)
Jaco. Make no apologies, signor, I’m the identical individual;—sit down and finish your supper.
Todd. Thank you, my appetite’s gone, and if you’ve no objection, I’d rather follow it.
Jaco. (fiercely) Sit down! (Todd drops into his chair) Now we can proceed to business. (placing pistols on table, and playing with dagger, Todd turns muzzle of pistols from him)
Todd. (apart) Private and confidential assassination!